Christian responses to the teachings of Jesus

Question 1

What is the between those who see Jesus’ authority as God’s authority VS those who see it as only human?

Answer 1

• Those who view him as having God’s authority feel as if they should obey his teaching - however some of his teaching seems impractical and counterintuitive
• Those who see him as only human are free to decide whether they follow his teaching or not

Question 2

What was the topic of Matthew 5: 38-48

Answer 2

Turning the other cheek and loving thy neighbour

Question 3

What is contradicting about Matthew 5:38-48?

Answer 3

Jesus claims to be a pacifist but overturned the merchants tables in the temple

Question 4

How can Matthew 5: 38-48 be interpreted without contradiction

Answer 4

• some argue that Jesus was using exaggeration to make the point that desire for revenge and harboring hatred impacts negatively on the person concerned

Question 5

How could cultural relevance explain Matthew 5: 38-48’s contradictions?

Answer 5

For those living under roman occupation - it helped as active resistance was dealt with ruthlessly